So I haven't said much about it, but April is Autism Awareness Month. I've seen loads of news stories and puff pieces about autism this month. I've also (rather coincidentally) been reading books by people on the spectrum and finding blogs to follow. I feel a little awkward about the whole thing because we don't know if Bug is autistic or not. But the last few articles I've read having hit on a point I think I should talk about a bit.
Autism spectrum disorder is a really, really broad spectrum disorder. Some kids can hardly function on their own, are non-verbal and struggle with the most basic interactions. Other kids are highly verbal (even advanced) and might just seem quirky or "weird". Every single child has a different set of symptoms and triggers and sensory issues. Because of this range, it can be really difficult to spot an autistic child. And sadly, a lot of people don't know about or acknowledge autism as a real disorder. They say kids are just hyper or rude or shy or oblivious or naughty or a host of other negative things.
So here's my request: When you see a kid doing something "naughty" or who seems out of control or what have you, before you judge that kid, before you judge his parents, stop. Think about it. That kid could have a ton of issues that you know absolutely nothing about. He could be screaming on the floor because the lights are overstimulating and he can't tell you because he can't make the words come out. Or it could smell awful to him. Or maybe something stressful happened there. The kid bouncing up and down excitedly isn't necessarily just hyper. He could be jumping because the sensory input into his joint is stronger if he jumps. The kid who has to touch every. single. thing. might just need that extra stimulation.
We, as parents, know. We know how our kids look, how they make noises that are out of place. And quite frankly, we see the looks they get and we get. But we also know that we still have to get to Target and it's our job as parents to teach our kids to function and behave appropriately in public.
So instead of gaping, or giving a stern look or a stare or whatever, maybe give a kind smile and move on. And if you've got kids, encourage them to be kind. It's ok for them to ask questions. I can explain to people why he jumps or flaps or finds it hard to talk. I know it's hard to be friends with someone who doesn't know how to show that he likes you or even notices you, but they deserve and WANT friends too. Everyone has weird traits, and everyone has amazing talents. Let's all just try to appreciate our uniqueness a little bit more. Ok? Ok. :)
Here's a couple of links to books and articles I've read lately:
Be Different by John Elder Robison
My Clones in Action
Busting Autism myths with a camera
Will post again later this week, after our first OT session! Can't wait! <3
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